Happy New Year. We hadn’t planned on issuing a newsletter so early in the year so we’ll make this one quite brief. It’s just that there’s rather a lot happening on the river right now!
We’ve had a very wet Christmas and New Year with constant rain. This has left the river levels above normal – the first time in a very long time.
Trouble spots that we are aware of include:
There are flood alerts in place from Lechlade all the way down to Benson, a massive 50 mile section of the Path; and from Staines to Hampton Court.
By deduction, we believe there will be problems approaching North Meadow, Cricklade; and, most likely, at Water Hay.
On a positive note, we checked out the road markings at the Benson Lock diversion and these are clear. Although there is some road walking, most of it is on quiet roads. The one section that is on the A4074 is very short and there is a pavement.
As always, keep an eye on our route alerts page for the latest information.
Diversions currently in place:
The weir at Benson Lock has been temporarily closed due to strong currents and debris creating a risk of damage. You will need to follow side roads through Crowmarsh Gifford. The route is well marked. The closure is likely to be in place until well into the spring.
Diversions remain in place around the closed boardwalk upstream from Marsh Lock, Henley. If walking downstream, there seems to be a sign missing: if you get to the fenced off boardwalk leading to Marsh Lock then you’ve missed the turn. There is a path leading to your left about 20 yards before the boardwalk.
The premiere of “Time and Tide: The Thames, Greenwich and its forgotten past” will be held on February 2 at the National Maritime Museum. The film, made by Paul Wyatt, explores the relationship between people, forgotten histories, a changing landscape, and the environment along the river Thames at Greenwich. Tickets can be purchased here.
Something to look forward to in April at the Tate is an exhibition of work by the Rossetti family: Dante, Gabriel and Elisabeth. Readers may be aware that Dante Rossetti shared Kelmscott Manor with William Morris.
Buckingham Palace will be open from July 14 to September 24. So, if planning on walking through London between those dates, consider carving out some time for a visit of a lifetime.
That’s all for now. We’ll be back in a week’s time with a bit more news. Our office is back open. In the meantime, stay dry.
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